BMW's new gear shift patent image exposed, causing quite a stir

Whether it is an automatic or manual model, the gear shifting method has hardly changed significantly in the past 50 years. The shift paddles or gear knob are indeed relatively innovative designs, but the basic concepts are not substantially different. And car manufacturers are indeed continuing to look for ways to transform contemporary cars, such as Tesla introducing touch-screen gear shifting operations, Genesis designing a transparent crystal gear shifting mechanism for the GV60... and so on. Now, BMW may be joining the ranks of innovations by integrating the gearshift with the car's start function and electronic braking.

According to foreign media exposure of BMW’s latest patent application documents submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, it was found that the original manufacturer has applied for a very futuristic gear shifting interface. Since it is still in the patent application stage, BMW officials have not provided any information about this new design, nor can they confirm whether it will be mass-produced one day. According to the data, BMW has made the shift mechanism a lifting type, and provides a touch display screen on the surface, which can switch different functions according to the use situation.

Before the vehicle is started, the gearshift mechanism will be sunk into the center saddle, presenting a smooth and neat appearance. There is a small screen below that can display simple information such as the current operating status. The shift mechanism itself is only slightly unique in shape, but not beyond imagination. What truly subverts common perceptions is BMW's reinterpretation of operating logic. This gear shifting interface can not only change vehicle gears, but can also be used to start or stop the vehicle, and can even control the electronic parking brake.

Integrating multiple functions into one interface is not new to the automotive industry, but BMW's idea will indeed bring about some changes. If there is a chance to realize it, driving will only require one control part to start and stop the vehicle, change gears, and park. And not only can you control multiple functions on one interface, but you can also reduce operating steps in most daily use situations.

For example, press the start button, the shift mechanism rises, and then you only need to switch to the forward gear to unlock the brakes and drive away; when you get home, it is even easier, press the stop button, and the system can automatically switch to parking. gear, engages the electronic parking brake and turns off the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle will automatically determine whether the opening and closing function or the electronic parking brake function displayed on the gear mechanism is based on a number of conditions. This patent may not bring about a completely different evolutionary experience, but it can indeed change the car-using habits of ordinary people. As for whether this is really necessary, we may have to wait for time to give the answer.